Microwave Fire Sends Easton Resident to Hospital

A microwave fire hit a Foundry Street home Wednesday afternoon, resulting in a trip to the hospital for an Easton resident and an estimated $20,000 worth of damage.

Charles Salamone, of 785 Foundry Street, told Fire Chief Kevin Partridge that he melted butter in the microwave prior to the fire occurring. After he had taken the butter out of the microwave, he heard a pop and then noticed smoke and fire in the microwave. He attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher, Partridge said in a statement.

Salamone lives in an in law apartment. The fire set off smoke detectors, which awoke his daughter in-law, Victoria Salamone, in the other section of the house. She called 911.

A Norton engine, Easton engine and Mansfield ladder truck all assisted on the scene.

Charles Salamone was experiencing shortness of breath and was assisted on scene and taken to the hospital to be checked out, Partridge said.

He said the fire is under further investigation as to what may have caused the microwave to catch fire.

Fire Damage extended to the cabinets above and on the side of the microwave, and smoke extended throughout the entire in-law apartment, and water damage was minimal, Partridge said.

Partridge said he encourages all Easton residents to have a working smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector.